January 21, 2020

Apple Sage Cauliflower

Golden brown cauliflower, sprigs of fresh sage, and a dollop of sweet and tart applesauce make this tasty side dish the perfect addition to almost any meal. It’s inspired by the Blue Zone city of Loma Linda, California, where the mostly vegetarian population enjoys great longevity and health. Like other cruciferous vegetables, cauliflower is a rich source of detoxifying fiber and the cancer-fighting sulfur compounds indoles and isothiocyanates. Serves: 2 Ingredients 1 head (3-4 cups) cauliflower, chopped into florets 2 Tbs. toasted sesame oil ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce 1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar Salt and black pepper 3 sprigs fresh […]
January 14, 2019

Broccoli Steps It Up With Miso

Plain veggies can be boring but doctoring them up with savory miso and spices can make anyone a lover—even of broccoli, cauliflower, or kale. Japanese miso is a fermented soybean paste you can buy in the refrigerated section of natural food stores. Miso tastes salty and savory; some people describe it as earthy. White miso paste, which is preferred in Kyoto, Japan, has a more delicate flavor than brown or red miso paste. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain slightly bitter compounds that may help kill cancer cells. Miso provides probiotic bacteria for a healthy gut. […]
November 13, 2018

Celery Root Mashed Potatoes

Celery root (celeriac or knob celery) gets no respect. Sure it’s somewhat ugly, but so are other tubers that grow underground. This mild vegetable is low in carbohydrates, full of fiber, and can pair well with higher-carb vegetables like potatoes. In fact, your guests might not even notice that these mashed potatoes taste any different. Celery root is rich in vitamin K, which helps your blood clot normally (good for your heart, circulation system, and brain). It also has phosphorous, which helps nerves and muscles function properly and strengthens teeth. Potatoes are a surprisingly good source of the skin-protective antioxidant […]
November 13, 2018

Garlicky Green Beans

These green beans are easy to make and can even be prepped a day ahead of time, which makes them perfect for holidays and dinner parties. Marcona almonds make this simple side dish elegant. Green beans contain vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that boosts immune function and keeps eyes and skin healthy. Vitamin C helps the body resist infection, prevents cataracts, and boosts collagen. SERVES 4-6 Ingredients 1 lb. green beans (about 6 cups), trimmed 2 Tbs. olive oil 2 Tbs. Marcona almonds 2 Tbs. lemon juice 1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley 1 Tbs. chopped fresh […]
November 12, 2018

Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate

Brussels sprouts, pomegranate, and four common pantry ingredients are all that is needed to put together this colorful and crowd-pleasing side dish. Roasted Brussels sprouts are easy to make and filled with digestion-boosting fiber and beneficial antioxidants. Even those skeptical of this healthy cruciferous vegetable will love it alongside tart and juicy pomegranate and chopped walnuts. Enjoy this plant-based dish throughout the fall and winter seasons! Serves 2 Ingredients 16 halved Brussels sprouts 2 Tbs. coconut oil Salt and pepper to taste ⅓ cup pomegranate arils ⅓ cup walnut halves and pieces (toasted if desired) 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive […]
November 8, 2016

Tropical Yams

Heart-friendly yams are tarted up with lime juice and shredded coconut in this festive side dish. Serve it with lamb or my Ostrich Meatballs (Age Beautifully Cookbook). It also goes well with turkey, pork, and meatloaf. BENEFITS: Yams (and/or sweet potatoes) contain carotenoids and fiber. Carotenoids inhibit cancer and tumor growth, reduce your risk of heart disease, and support immune function. Fiber lowers blood cholesterol and, like carotenoids, reduces your risk of heart disease. SERVES 2-4 Ingredients 2 cups cubed yams or sweet potatoes, peeled 1 Tbs. coconut oil ½ tsp. salt or salt substitute 1 Tbs. fresh lime juice (and/or thin […]
June 7, 2016

Nettles Add Power to Pesto

At the height of allergy season, incorporating nettles into your meals can be a soothing practice offering relief. With research supporting the use of nettles for seasonal allergies and hay fever, this plant contains anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties (Learn more about the benefits of nettles in our story on them). It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Nettles care commonly cooked into a tea, but they also make a flavorful sauce. Enjoy this fresh nettle pesto today over quinoa or gluten-free pasta. Chef’s note: Never eat or touch fresh nettles; heat neutralizes the volatile compound that sting […]
November 22, 2013

Dressing Up Savory Stuffing

I use this stuffing for my Stuffed Turkey Rolls. Homemade croutons, raw celery, and sausages give this dish its unique flavor and texture. To serve as a side dish, spread the stuffing in a greased baking dish and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. YIELDS 2-3 cups Ingredients 4 Tbs. olive oil 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 lb. ground turkey 2 slices cubed whole-wheat bread Sea salt and ground pepper to taste 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 cup turkey or chicken broth 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 can (5 oz.) mashed Chicken Vienna sausages (optional) Procedure 1. Heat 3 […]